Sternbergia
Jane McGary (Tue, 11 May 2010 15:34:35 PDT)

Ina asked,

Yes, I have grown many Sternbergia plants from seed, mostly purchased
from the Archibalds. I think it germinates best if sown in fall and
exposed to cool (not freezing) temperatures for several months.

Getting seed from one's own plants can be tricky because the seed is
apparently very attractive to ants, which carry it off usually before
I spot the capsules ripening -- especially since I cover the
withering plants with Reemay (fabric row cover) to prevent
infestation by bulb fly.'

Self-sown sternbergias have appeared in my garden and bulb frames. I
have more than one clone of S. lutea and also of S. sicula (if indeed
they are that distinct), as well as S. greuteriana and some of the
more exotic species. I did eventually lose S. colchiciflora, though.

I think the key to getting them to flower well is to plant them in a
very warm spot. I have a considerable number out toward the edge of a
west-facing, sunny raised bed.

Jane McGary
Northwestern Oregon, USA